On June 21, 2025, NewSchool of Architecture & Design held commencement for the Class of 2025 at San Diego’s Balboa Theater. 

Gordon Carrier and Robin Wilson Carrier, active members of San Diego’s design community and founders of their respective design firms (Carrier Johnson + Culture and Robin Wilson Interior Design), led the Commencement Address and celebrated the hard work, perseverance, and passion of the graduating class.  

Equipped with professional degrees in architecture, design, and construction management, NewSchool’s graduates carry the skills, knowledge, and human-centered mindset to thrive in the design world and shape communities fueled by their creativity and aspirations. 

Student Awards 

Among this year’s cohort are a handful of students who represent the pinnacle of their class. Their achievements were recognized with the following awards: 

Outstanding Student Award for the School of Design  

Presented to a student who exemplifies exceptional creativity, professionalism, and dedication in the field of design. It honors innovative thinking, high-quality project execution, and consistent excellence in their design work. Recipients include:

• Zachary Brown, Bachelor of Arts in Product Design

• Lauren Willes, Interdisciplinary Design Distinction

Outstanding Student Award for Construction Management  

Presented to a construction management student who has demonstrated exceptional academic performance and dedication to their studies, reflecting a commitment to intellectual growth and scholarly achievement. Recipients include:

• Henry Vergil, Bachelor of Science in Construction Management

• Leah Halbert, Master of Construction Management

• Shuang Mao, Master of Construction Management

• Morgan Westbrook, Master of Construction Management

The Outstanding Design Award  

NewSchool’s longest-standing recognition, this award recognizes design that is innovative or accomplished and is of the highest possible visual and material quality. Recipients include:

• Quang Vu Nguyen, Bachelor of Architecture

• Kyle Dalpra, Interior Architecture & Design

• Joseph Siclot, Master of Architecture 4+3 IPAL

The Outstanding Thesis Award  

Presented to a Master of Architecture student whose thesis demonstrates exceptional originality, rigorous research, and exemplary design solutions. Recipients include:

• Ryan Craft, Master of Architecture 4+2

The Medal for Academic Excellence  

Awarded by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to the top-ranking students graduating from a NAAB-accredited Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, or Doctor of Architecture program. Recipients include:

• Quang Vu Nguyen, Bachelor of Architecture

• Ryan Craft, Master of Architecture 4+2